Jaissle seeks Newcastle players’ backing as ‘vertical football’ comes under fire

Newcastle manager turns to senior players after bruising week

Matthias Jaissle has asked Newcastle’s senior players for feedback on his “vertical football” approach after consecutive defeats intensified scrutiny of the team’s performances. The manager wants to know whether the squad is comfortable with the demands of his high press and high-intensity system.

The response, according to the report, was that players are “100% committed” to its principles, including a back four, an aggressive press and sustained intensity. Jaissle is not planning to abandon his footballing ideas, but believes the system can be refined and adapted rather than discarded.

Boos followed Saturday’s 1-0 defeat by Aston Villa at St James’ Park, which came after Newcastle had also lost to Coventry. The run has exposed problems when opponents have played through or around the press, prompting criticism that Jaissle’s approach can leave his side vulnerable.

Injuries and midfield structure add to the strain

Jaissle has pointed to injuries and the lack of a specialist defensive number six as factors behind the team’s uneven structure. Newcastle’s midfielders have at times both pressed forward, leaving space behind them and making it harder to absorb pressure. Finding a player to hold that deeper “sitting role” is seen as important to restoring organisation.

Sean Steur is highly rated by Jaissle and the club, but has been left out of the last two matches. The report suggests Newcastle may need an existing midfielder to adapt to a deeper role, despite recruiting in the area during the summer.

Several experienced voices have also been unavailable or short of match sharpness. Dan Burn and Joelinton are back from injuries but are still building fitness. Amar Dedic was on the bench against Villa but was not considered ready to play; he could return against Crystal Palace, though a full match is considered unlikely. Tino Livramento is also some way from full fitness.

Club calls for calm during a period of transition

Jaissle has urged the squad to remain calm and disregard the “noise” around the team. He is frustrated by recent performances and accepts there are issues to address, while maintaining that the squad’s transition and the disruption of injuries require patience.

Newcastle chief executive David Hopkinson met Jaissle at the club’s KNOX training base on Monday to review the difficult week. The club’s mood is described as calm, although decision-makers are dissatisfied with the results and errors, particularly in the final third.

The summer recruitment was intended to lower the squad’s age, and the group is still adjusting to a major change in direction. With captain Dan Burn, Joelinton and Anthony Elanga among the players regarded as important voices, Newcastle will look for greater leadership and improved structure as they prepare to face Crystal Palace.

“We’re going through an adjustment period,” one senior source said.